In recent decades, several factors have converged to result in a rise in the number of college students who struggle to meet their basic food and housing needs. More students from low-income families and more first-generation students are enrolling than in past decades. This is a welcome trend, particularly for institutions like NC State that are land-grant universities with an historical mission to ensure higher education is available to those who meet admissions standards, regardless of socio-economic status. As young adults from under-resourced families enter college, their financial challenges often continue, without the cushion of family support on which other students can rely.
ExploreOn the Verge
Financial costs and challenges go well beyond tuition for lower income students who want to stay in school and succeed.